Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School is an online, self-paced high school completion program that allows public libraries to offer accredited high school diplomas (not an equivalency exam like the GED) to adults who wish to prepare for entry into the workforce, further their career, or attend college. This program is available at no cost to qualifying adults who reside in St. John the Baptist Parish, are willing to obtain a library card, and have completed the eighth grade.
This year, the St. John the Baptist Parish Library proudly celebrated four graduates of the Excel Adult High School Program: Jayla Breaux, Alaycia Fiffie, Kia Lane, and, most recently, Charmaine Williams. A graduation ceremony was held at the Leroy D. Williams Memorial Library in May 2026 to celebrate this momentous milestone.
Program coordinator Raquel Parks spoke highly of each graduate’s strength of character.
As a stay-at-home mom of three, Kia Lane expertly balanced the demands of caring for her family and a commitment to her personal education. Between attending her children’s games and practices, helping with homework, and managing the responsibilities of everyday family life, Kia still found the time and determination to complete schoolwork.
Parks said Lane serves as an inspiration to others, proving it is possible to pursue – and achieve – your dreams while remaining a devoted parent.
“Her accomplishment is one that she, her family, and our entire community can celebrate with ultimate gratification,” Parks said.
As she celebrates this milestone, Lane is already looking toward the future. She has decided to further her education at the collegiate level by pursuing a degree in psychology, a reflection of her passion for helping others.
Parks also spoke highly of Jayla Breaux and Alaycia Fiffie’s accomplishments in the Excel Adult High School Program.
According to Parks, Breaux demonstrated unwavering determination and a strong commitment to completing her high school education. Although her journey did not end in a traditional high school setting, she never allowed that to define her future.
“Her willingness to keep moving forward is a testament to her strength of character,” Parks said. “Jayla’s achievement is a powerful reminder that success is not determined by the path you take, but by the determination to keep going until you reach your destination.”
Alaycia Fiffie also displayed remarkable resilience throughout her journey. Despite facing personal obstacles along the way, she never lost sight of her educational goals.
“Alaycia’s achievement is an inspiring reminder that obstacles may occur, but it’s the courage to keep moving forward that leads to success,” Parks said. “Her accomplishment is one she should be incredibly proud of, and I have no doubt that the tenacity she demonstrated throughout this journey will continue to guide her in the future.”
St. John the Baptist Parish Library congratulates Jayla, Alaycia, Kia, and Charmaine on this incredible achievement and wishes them continued success as they begin their next chapters.
For more information about Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School, prospective students can visit https://excelhighschool.org/library/stjohn or contact Parks at 985-267-1703 / ExcelHS@stjohnlib.com.